One thing is certain, however: all students develop with the experiences they have in England. They become more independent, more open-minded and more self-confident. Every move abroad changes your own perspective and broadens your mind. Together with us, you will find out when is the right time to take this step.
"You immediately noticed that every teacher is really passionate about his subject and the students and that he is very keen to make the lessons exciting and to get the best out of us students." - Pauline
Your child's personality plays a large part here (is he or she ready for it?) and also whether the school at home grants leave to go abroad during standard school career.
The possible entry points into the British school system are at 13+ (Year 9 entry), 14+ (Year 10 entry), 15+ (Year 11 entry/Pre Sixth) and 16+ (Sixth Form) - but there are always exceptions to this rule! Most students join in September of any school year, but mid-year entries are also possible.
"Learning together in the mornings and competing in sports in the afternoons bonds you together and allows you to make good friends quickly, even if you are new."
GCSEs: The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams are taken at the end of Year 11 (= end of 10th grade in Germany) and are recognized in Germany as a secondary school leaving certificate.
A-Levels (1 or 2-year programs): This is the traditional British qualification for school leavers, equivalent to the German Abitur. A-Levels are acknowledged in Germany as a subject-specific academic university entrance qualification. They are an ideal choice for students who already have a clear understanding of their interests and talents and wish to develop them further.
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB, 2 years): This is a globally recognized qualification. The IB Diploma is accepted in Germany as a general higher education entrance qualification, provided the appropriate combination of subjects is chosen. A challenging program for well-rounded individuals.
BTECs: These vocationally focused courses are offered by many schools as a supplement to A-Levels. BTECs can be very interesting and beneficial for future careers (e.g., BTEC in Digital Media, BTEC in Enterprise & Entrepreneurship, BTEC in Travel & Tourism). While you can enter university with BTECs in England, they are unfortunately not recognized by German universities.
“I was able to live both my ‘Harry Potter’ and my ‘Hanni & Nanni' dream life, wearing a school uniform and with wonderful people in the beautiful school.”
"Without a doubt, the past two years in England were the best thing that could have happened to me for my personal and academic development." - Philipp / Ardingly
“I also thought the activities were great and that you could continue your existing hobbies as well as try out something new.” - Carla / Queen Anne's
Feel free to call us to find out more: +49-89-3840540 or email us under info@glasmacher.de